Santorso
Discover Santorso, a town rich in history and legends
Santorso is a small town in the province of Vicenza, located at the foot of Monte Summano. With a population of 5557 inhabitants, Santorso is a place rich in history and legends. In this article, we discover more about the physical geography, the origins of the name, and the ancient history of this fascinating municipality.
Physical Geography
Santorso is located in the heart of the Veneto region, surrounded by gentle hills and the Monte Summano range. The territory is characterized by woods, fields, and valleys that extend towards the Po Valley. The sunny location at the foot of Monte Summano makes Santorso an ideal destination for nature lovers, both in summer and winter.
Origins of the Name
The name Santorso comes from the patron saint of the town, Sant'Orso. The saint has been venerated by the local populations since ancient times. Legend has it that Sant'Orso arrived in Salzena, at the foot of Monte Summano, where he received the revelation of his martyrdom. On May 3rd of 800, during his pilgrimage, Sant'Orso died suddenly. His relics were first deposited in the church of San Dionigi and then transported to the sanctuary dedicated to him.
Another hypothesis about the origins of the name Santorso refers to the longobard family Beroaldi, which was the first to possess investitures in this territory. According to this hypothesis, the name Santorso would derive from the translation of the name of the Bär family, i.e., bear in Germanic language.
History
Ancient Times
The origins of Santorso date back to Roman times when the settlement was called Salzena and was one of the richest Roman villas in the Vicenza area. This territory was particularly important for the wool industry, so much so that medieval toponymy testifies to the presence of mills and spinning mills in the entire Summano area.
It is hypothesized that the territory of Santorso was inhabited even in pre-Roman times, by the Euganean populations. The archaeological finds of pre-Roman times in Bocca Lorenza testify to the presence of these cultures in the area.
Medieval Times
During the Middle Ages, Santorso was contested between the cities of Vicenza and Padua, and subsequently between the noble families of the area. In the twelfth century, it passed under the control of the Counts of Vicenza, who were related to the Venetian families of Candiano and Orseolo, who governed the territory until their extinction in the fifteenth century.
In the fourteenth century, Santorso underwent an important urban transformation with the construction of the Castle. The fortress was built in a strategic position, on a rocky hill, to defend the town from external raids. Today the castle is open to the public and has been renovated to host exhibitions and cultural events.
Modern Times
Over the centuries, Santorso underwent numerous historical events, including partisan Resistance during World War II. Today the town is a highly appreciated tourist destination, thanks to its natural beauty and rich historical and cultural heritage.
The local population is very welcoming and proud of their tradition. Every year, on May 3rd, the feast of the patron saint Sant'Orso is celebrated, with costume parades, music, and fireworks.
Conclusions
Santorso is a small Venetian town that encompasses a very rich historical and cultural heritage. Its location at the foot of Monte Summano makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor walks. The legend of the patron saint Sant'Orso and the fascinating medieval history of the castle contribute to making Santorso a truly unique tourist destination. If you want to discover more about the history and traditions of this town, Santorso welcomes you with open arms.
